EXCLUSIVE PARAMEDIC HERO JOSH QUITS

Casualty star Ian Bleasdale - paramedic Josh Griffiths - is to quit the show after 18 years.

The 55-year-old actor, who has been in the BBC1 medical drama since 1989, wants to try his hand at other roles.

But series producer Oliver Kent said the door would be left "firmly open" for him to return in the future.

Josh and head nurse Charlie Fairhead - played by Derek Thompson since the show started 21 years ago - are the longest serving stars of the series.

Their touching farewell scenes on screen are guaranteed to have fans reaching for their hankies.

One show source said: "Josh has had such terrible luck in his life. His family died in a house fire, his second marriage broke down and then he was stabbed at Christmas. But finally he's going to get some happiness in his life.

"He goes on holiday, falls in love and ends up getting married. All the team are pleased he's finally getting some good luck.

"It is sad to see Ian go, but everyone wishes him well and there's always the possibility he might return at some point in the future."

Casualty returns early next month. Josh bows out at the end of the year. In moving scenes best mate Charlie hugs him and says: "Prove to me that it can work out. Be happy mate." The new series has been revamped with an "edgier" feel.